12.10.2009

There is something refreshing about wiping the slate clean and starting a new year. And January is that time of year where any goals set are grand and probably a little over the top.

And it is these grandiose plans that often see us fail to achieve our goals, as they are just too big a step in one go. But it is possible to achieve big goals, if you approach it the right way.

There are five elements needed to successfully change any habit and accomplish any goal, regardless how big it may be:1. VisionRegardless of what you goal is, you need to have a vision. A vision is a big picture insight into your perfect life, and is ideally what you are striving towards. Sit back and reflect on what you think your perfect life would be like, and write down a few sentences to describe it. This is your vision and your goal setting and new year resolutions need to reflect it.

2. AttitudeYou've probably heard a lot about the role of a positive outlook in success and accomplishment. And it's true – some people have even cured themselves from life threatening illnesses against all odds with the power of a positive outlook.

So when working towards your vision, it is important to keep a positive outlook. Focus on the positives and the pleasure you'll experience when you've achieved your vision, rather than focusing on failures or making excuses for not moving forwards.

Affirmations play a role here. Affirmations are basically a series of positive, reinforcing statements that you repeatedly say to yourself to program your mindset to help you achieve your goals. Affirmations usually are a statement like "I am a successful businessman", rather than "I will become a successful businessman", the theory being that if you repeat the first affirmation enough that your mind thinks you are a successful businessman, then the attitudes and behaviors that go with that success will follow.

Follow the link at the bottom of the find where you'll find lots of free resources, including a free affirmation e-course, if you want to learn more.

3. TimeYou need to set aside enough time everyday to work on your goals, and you also need to allow enough timeframe to be able to accomplish them. You can't lose 20kg in 1 week, but if you set aside 30 minutes everyday to exercise as well as eating a healthy diet, you will in time lose your 20kg.

Initially it may seem like a chore, taking time out everyday to work on your goals. But if you don't, how can you possibly accomplish them? And the good news is that as you start to make progress towards your end result, you will feel more enthused to continue and taking time to work on your goals won't seem like such a burden.

The hardest thing is taking that first step and gaining the initial momentum. Once you're on a roll, just run with it.

4. ResourcesAs well as time, you will need resources and tools to achieve your goals. These resources could be in the form of information, a support group, something physical like an exercise bike or money. Whatever the resource or tool required, you need to identify them and how to get them.

Of course, the most critical tool you need to develop is an action plan of how you are going to accomplish your goals. What steps do you need to take to get there, and what is your first or next step?

5. MaintenanceThe hardest part of achieving any goal is sticking to the plan and remaining committed. It can take time to achieve your goals, and it is easy to get distracted and un-motivated. Maintain your vision and your resolve to progress towards your vision. And probably the best way to do this is to review the above steps regularly to re-motivate yourself and keep you on track.

What is your vision for this year? Whatever it is, be kind to yourself, and make sure that you've considered the above five elements of a successful resolution.

You can find out more about how to achieve all your goals and dreams by checking out these FREE goal setting tools and resources . You'll also find lots of free advice and templates on a range of self-help topics from success to people skills.

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"I accept with gratitude all the wonderful things which are already in my life, and all the even better things which are about to come to me...I am an irresistible magnet for all that belongs to me by divine right"